Community Links

At Hartside, we value the strong relationships we have built within our local community. These connections enrich our curriculum, broaden pupils’ experiences, and help us play an active role in the life of the town.

We have previously supported The Bread and Butter Thing, helping families access affordable food and essentials. Our close relationship with St. Catherine’s Church remains a special part of school life: every other year we host our Nativity performance there, and Rev Ann visits school regularly to lead assemblies—more recently focusing on our school values and how they guide us in everyday life.

Our careers and STEM links continue to grow. We work closely with local engineering business CMCA, who recently hosted our Year 5 pupils for an inspiring careers and STEM experience. Until this year, we were proud annual participants in the Crook Winter Light Parade, a much‑loved community event that sadly lost its funding.

We also take part in wider community projects, including an allotment initiative with Foundary Fields, where pupils have contributed to planting, growing, and caring for shared green spaces. Throughout the year, we welcome visits from local emergency services, who deliver important safety assemblies and help pupils understand how to stay safe and informed.

These partnerships help children understand their place in the community, build pride in where they live, and see how working together can make a meaningful difference.